Northern Iowa extends winning streak

GREELEY, Colo. - The University of Northern wrestling team continued its winning streak with a 40-6 win over Northern Colorado.

The Panthers recorded four pins, one major decision and two decisions. David Bonin, 157 pounds, won by forfeit.

UNI's Ryan Loder set the tone for the team with his major decision win over Keith Johnson, 10-1. He earned 3:06 in riding time. He improves his record to 18-3 and has only given up nine points all season.

"He controlled everything. He hit a real good shot," said head coach Doug Schwab. "It was a good start for us."

He has the fifth-highest winning percentage among UNI Panthers who have had at least 50 wins and competed at least two seasons. His career record is 83-20.

After that, UNI lost its only two matches by decision in the 197-pound and 285-pound weight classes.

"Blaize had a match we would like to win," said Schwab. "It was his first time in the varsity lineup. Beale rushed a shot in overtime, but he was aggressive. I liked that. Then we just rolled from there."

"Our lower weights came out real aggressive after losing a couple. They responded to that. Jarrett Jensen had a gut check and Jensen. The other guy had the momentum, but he came out with the win."

The Panthers look to improve on their 3-1 dual record when they face a second opponent, Air Force (3-0) this weekend in Colorado Springs, Colo. All the Falcon wrestlers are undefeated in duals this season.

"We have to be ready to go with Air Force," said Schwab. "It helped our confidence to put a string of victories together. We have to do it against Air Force. I think we will be more ready. They have a pretty solid team, we'll be up to that level."

Standout Cole VonOhlen, 149 pounds, recently was named the Western Wrestling Conference Wrestler of the Week. He currently is ranked fourth in the nation by Intermat. Freshman Josh Martinez is ranked 11th by Intermat. The team is ranked 25th, two places ahead of UNI at 27th. Air Force finished 11th at the Cliff Keen Invite.

UNI will return home to host Oklahoma at 7 p.m. Jan. 18. Former Panther and Olympic gold medalist Bill Smith will be recognized for his achievements in wrestling.